A story and a screenplay are two distinct elements in the process of filmmaking. Here's an overview of their differences and the steps involved in converting a story into a screenplay:

1. Story:

   - A story refers to the narrative concept or idea, the plot, characters, and overall structure of a film or any other form of storytelling.

   - It can exist in various formats, such as a novel, short story, play, or even a simple outline.

   - In a story, the focus is on the narrative content, character development, and thematic elements.

2. Screenplay:

   - A screenplay is a written document that serves as the blueprint for a film. It includes specific instructions for actors, directors, and other production crew members to bring the story to life on the screen.

   - It contains scene descriptions, dialogue, character actions, and other necessary details required for filming.

   - The screenplay provides a technical and visual roadmap for the production team to follow during the filmmaking process.

Steps to Convert a Story into a Screenplay:

1. Familiarize yourself with the story: Read and understand the story thoroughly. Identify key plot points, character arcs, themes, and important scenes that need to be translated into a visual medium.

2. Determine the screenplay format: Familiarize yourself with the standard screenplay format, including elements like scene headings, action lines, dialogue, and transitions. Software tools like Final Draft or Celtx can assist in formatting.

3. Outline the screenplay: Create a high-level outline of the screenplay, breaking it down into acts, sequences, and scenes. Identify major plot points and character arcs, ensuring a coherent structure for the visual storytelling.

4. Develop characters: Define the main characters and their traits, motivations, and relationships. Ensure that the character's actions and dialogue align with their personalities and contribute to the overall story.

5. Adapt the story into scenes: Translate the story's key events and scenes into the screenplay format. Specify the locations, actions, and dialogue for each scene, providing a clear and engaging visual representation.

6. Focus on visual storytelling: Remember that film is a visual medium. Incorporate visual descriptions, actions, and gestures that enhance the audience's understanding and engagement with the story.

7. Craft dialogue: Write dialogue that captures the characters' voices, conveys their emotions, and advances the story. Make the dialogue natural, concise, and impactful.

8. Refine and revise: Review the screenplay for coherence, pacing, and clarity. Polish the language, eliminate redundancies, and ensure that each scene contributes to the overall narrative and character development.

9. Seek feedback: Share the screenplay with trusted individuals who can provide constructive criticism. Consider their suggestions and make necessary revisions to improve the script.

10. Finalize the screenplay: Once satisfied with the screenplay, make any final revisions and ensure that it adheres to the industry-standard format. Include a title page with relevant information.

Remember that converting a story into a screenplay involves adapting the core elements of the story into a visual and structured format. The goal is to create a script that effectively communicates the story's essence and engages both the production team and the audience.

How to start a story with strong concept?

Starting your story with a strong concept is crucial for capturing your readers' attention and drawing them into your narrative. Here are some tips on how to start your story with a strong concept, along with a great example:

1. Start with a question:

   Pose a question to your readers that will pique their curiosity and make them want to know more. For example, "What would you do if you woke up one day and found yourself in a different body?"

2. Begin with a striking image:

   Use vivid imagery to create a powerful opening scene that will stick in your readers' minds. For example, "The sun was setting over the deserted city, casting long shadows across the abandoned buildings and sending a chill down my spine."

3. Use a surprising or unexpected opening line:

   Start your story with a line that will surprise or intrigue your readers. For example, "I never believed in ghosts until the day I saw one in my own bedroom."

4. Start with an action scene:

   Begin your story with an exciting action scene that will immediately draw your readers in. For example, "I was running for my life through the dark, twisting alleys of the old city, my heart pounding in my chest as I heard the sound of footsteps closing in behind me."

5. Create a unique premise:

   Develop a unique premise that will immediately capture your readers' attention. For example, "In a world where everyone has a superpower, one girl is born without any powers at all."

A great example of starting a story with a strong concept can be found in the opening lines of George Orwell's classic novel, "1984":

It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen. Winston Smith, his chin nuzzled into his breast in an effort to escape the vile wind, slipped quickly through the glass doors of Victory Mansions, though not quickly enough to prevent a swirl of gritty dust from entering along with him.

In just two sentences, Orwell sets the tone for his dystopian world, with its strange and unsettling details like the clocks striking thirteen and the gritty dust. He also introduces his protagonist, Winston Smith, and gives us a glimpse of his struggle against the oppressive government. By starting with a strong concept, Orwell draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of the story.